There’s nothing quite like coming home to a big, bubbling pot of Bison Chili. Hearty, zesty, and packed with layers of flavor, this chili is my go-to recipe for cozy nights, family game days, or anytime I want something bold yet nourishing. The natural richness of ground bison pairs perfectly with smoky spices, tender beans, and a medley of colorful veggies. If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and a bit unexpected, Bison Chili is about to become your new favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple with fresh, vibrant ingredients that work together to create a robust, crave-worthy chili. Each component adds something special—whether it’s the deep umami of bison, the sweet crunch of bell pepper, or the kick from smoky spices. Don’t skimp on any of these; they’re the secret behind that slow-simmered magic!
- Ground Bison (1 pound): Lean, deeply flavored, and the star of this Bison Chili, bison brings a meaty heartiness without excess fat.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Just enough to sauté your veggies and create a flavorful base for your chili.
- Onion, diced (1 medium): Offers aromatic sweetness and depth that builds the chili’s savory profile.
- Green Bell Pepper, diced (1): Adds color, crunch, and a subtle bitterness for balance.
- Garlic Cloves, minced (2): For a punch of savory aroma that infuses every bite.
- Jalapeño, seeded and minced (1, optional): Brings a welcome heat that you can customize to your spice level.
- Diced Tomatoes (15-ounce can): The juicy base that ties everything together and gives that classic chili texture.
- Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed (15-ounce can): Their robust flavor and hearty texture are a chili staple.
- Black Beans, drained and rinsed (15-ounce can): For extra fiber, creaminess, and another layer of flavor.
- Beef or Vegetable Broth (1 cup): Helps meld the chili’s flavors and keeps things wonderfully saucy.
- Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Rich and tangy, it’s a flavor booster that thickens the chili just right.
- Chili Powder (2 tablespoons): The essential spice blend for warmth and depth—don’t be shy!
- Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon): Earthy and slightly smoky, cumin brings wonderful complexity.
- Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): For a subtly smoky undertone that makes the Bison Chili irresistible.
- Dried Oregano (1/2 teaspoon): A gentle earthy-herbal note that rounds out the flavors.
- Sea Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to enhance every element of the dish.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For a final savory kick that wakes up your palate.
How to Make Bison Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper, letting them soften as they sizzle—about five minutes should do the trick. You’re building the flavor for your Bison Chili right from the start!
Step 2: Add Garlic and Jalapeño
Once the onion and pepper look glossy and golden at the edges, stir in the minced garlic and jalapeño. Sauté for just a minute more until their fragrances pop. Adjust your jalapeño quantity for that custom heat level everyone secretly desires in a chili.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Bison
Now it’s time for the ground bison to shine. Add the meat to your aromatic veggie base. Break it up with your spoon and let it brown evenly, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where your Bison Chili truly starts to build its signature richness—just be careful not to overcook, since bison is leaner than beef!
Step 4: Pile in the Flavor
Bring in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, broth, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give everything a hearty stir. Your pot will look vibrant, chunky, and oh so promising. The blend of spices and tomato makes this Bison Chili irresistibly robust.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Increase the heat just enough to bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. Give it the occasional stir. Over this time those flavors meld, and your chili naturally thickens to the perfect hearty consistency. Adjust seasoning at the end to suit your taste—don’t be afraid to personalize!
How to Serve Bison Chili
Garnishes
The best Bison Chili experiences are finished with a flourish! Top each steaming bowl with shredded cheddar, fresh green onions, creamy avocado slices, or a dollop of tangy sour cream. Each garnish adds personality and a new texture to every bite.
Side Dishes
This chili is strong enough to stand alone, but it absolutely loves a sidekick. Warm cornbread, fluffy rice, or a crisp mixed salad help make this Bison Chili a standout meal. Tortilla chips on the side? Always a winner for dunking!
Creative Ways to Present
Try ladling your Bison Chili over baked sweet potatoes, spiralized zucchini, or even nestled in a bread bowl for something a little different. Hosting a crowd? Serve it as a chili bar with bowls of toppings and let everyone build their ideal bowl—expect lots of smiles!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the chili cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days—some say it tastes even better the next day as all those flavors deepen!
Freezing
This Bison Chili freezes beautifully. Ladle cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the chili in a saucepan over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. For a speedy lunch, the microwave works well—just cover to avoid splatters! If the chili seems thick, splash in a bit more broth to loosen it up.
FAQs
What makes bison a good choice for chili?
Bison is naturally lean yet full-flavored, so it gives this Bison Chili a hearty texture and rich taste without being overly fatty. It’s a fantastic way to add some variety and nutrition to your classic chili night.
Is Bison Chili spicy?
This recipe is mildly spicy as written, but the heat level is up to you! Use the jalapeño for noticeable warmth, or leave it out for a milder bowl. The beauty of Bison Chili is how easy it is to tweak to your spice preference.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground bison for extra beans or a plant-based ground meat alternative, and use vegetable broth. All the other Bison Chili flavors and textures remain just as delicious.
How can I thicken or thin the chili if needed?
If you want your chili even heartier, let it simmer a bit longer uncovered. For a looser texture, add a splash more broth or even a bit of water until it hits your desired consistency.
What toppings go best with Bison Chili?
Bison Chili is super versatile—popular choices include shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, chopped onions, diced avocado, jalapeño slices, or a swirl of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Mix and match to discover your favorite combo!
Final Thoughts
Bison Chili truly delivers comfort, nutrition, and bold flavor in every bite. If you’re in the mood for something a little adventurous yet totally approachable, this recipe is absolutely worth a try. Gather your favorite toppings and dive in—you might just find your new “secret weapon” for chilly nights!
Print
Bison Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty Bison Chili is a flavorful twist on the classic dish, using lean ground bison for a healthier option. Packed with protein and fiber, this chili is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients
Ground Bison:
1 pound
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Onion:
1 medium, diced
Green Bell Pepper:
1, diced
Garlic Cloves:
2, minced
Jalapeño:
1, seeded and minced (optional)
Diced Tomatoes:
1 can (15 ounces)
Kidney Beans:
1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
Black Beans:
1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
Beef or Vegetable Broth:
1 cup
Tomato Paste:
2 tablespoons
Chili Powder:
2 tablespoons
Ground Cumin:
1 teaspoon
Smoked Paprika:
1 teaspoon
Dried Oregano:
1/2 teaspoon
Sea Salt:
1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened. Add garlic and jalapeño.
- Cook Bison: Add ground bison, cook until browned.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in tomatoes, beans, broth, tomato paste, and spices. Simmer for 30–40 minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
- Bison is lean, so avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
- This chili tastes even better the next day and freezes well for quick meals later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
